February offers a unique mix of celestial events, from a rare lunar circumstance to a planetary alignment and the potential for vibrant auroras. While the month is short, patient stargazers will be rewarded with memorable views, particularly those in the Southern Hemisphere. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect.
Rare Lunar Occurrence: No Full Moon?
February is the only month short enough to potentially skip a full moon entirely, a phenomenon that last occurred in 2018. Though a full “Snow Moon” will appear on February 1st, rising at 5:09 p.m. EST, the possibility of a month with no full moon highlights the precise rhythm of lunar cycles. The absence of a widely-accepted name for this event – some jokingly call it a “black moon” – underscores how little attention is given to lunar phenomena outside of well-known events like blue moons.
Southern Skies Light Up: Alpha Centaurid Meteors
The Alpha Centaurid meteor shower peaks on February 8th, but visibility is heavily skewed toward the Southern Hemisphere. Those north of the equator will struggle to see these meteors as the radiant point remains below the horizon. This isn’t an unusual situation; meteor showers often favor one hemisphere due to Earth’s tilt and orbital mechanics. The shower is still worth checking out if you’re in the right location, but don’t expect a spectacular show if you’re in the north.
Six Planets Align on February 28th
The highlight of February is the alignment of six planets visible near the horizon one hour after sunset on the 28th. Venus, Mercury, Saturn, and Jupiter will be visible to the naked eye, with Uranus and Neptune requiring binoculars or a small telescope. This event is a prime example of how planets, despite their independent orbits, occasionally line up from our perspective on Earth. Such alignments are visually striking and a reminder of the dynamic nature of our solar system.
A Banner Year for Auroras
Beyond specific events, 2026 promises exceptional aurora activity. Increased solar wind driven by coronal holes and coronal mass ejections are predicted to bathe the night sky in vibrant auroral displays. These geomagnetic storms – triggered by the sun’s magnetic field releasing plasma into space – could make auroras visible at lower latitudes than usual. The increased frequency of these events is a significant trend for observers in both hemispheres.
To maximize viewing, find a dark location away from light pollution, allow your eyes to adjust, and consult stargazing tips before venturing out. February’s skies offer a captivating blend of rare lunar moments, meteor showers, planetary alignments, and the promise of spectacular auroral displays.
